<p>Hey guys,</p>
<p>Is there anyone who has done the 3 year M.Arch degree or knows much about it?
I already have a Bachelor of Commerce degree so this would be the best degree for me to enter into the Architecture profession, without having to do another undergrad degree.</p>
<p>How is it possible that it's only 1 year longer than the M.Arch for those with architecture undergrads? How do they squeeze all the work taught during the undergrad into 1 year? Is this path a respected one in the industry?</p>
<p>Cheers!</p>
<p>Grant</p>
<p>I don't think I'm the best to answer this question. But typically architecture undergrads came from a four year program. Often in depth architecture classes aren't started till the 2nd or 3rd year, I believe, and even at this point a lot of time is still being dedicated to other subjects. The 2 year M.Arch for those with an architecture undergrad then completes the remaining arch classes. From my understanding, the 3 year M.Arch would be similiar-only architecture classes, except they expect you do enter with some knowledge of the field (like you should have a bit of an idea to draft/model/think creatively).</p>
<p>Grant, yes, the MArch is well respected in the industry and many successful architects have taken that route after a receiving BA's or BS's in related or unrelated fields. Many also defer a few years to work in architecture firms in non-architect positions.</p>
<p>The 3 year programs -- 3.5 years in many cases -- are quite intense. And even after graduation there is a licensing period so you don't immediately become a practicing architect.</p>
<p>Most of the universities that offer MArch degrees have information sessions. You should try to attend. Or just peruse the websites for more background.</p>
<p>You wouldn't need to pursue another undergraduate degree before applying to an MArch program; however, you would have to make sure that you fulfill the college's entry requirements. These vary school to school, but most ask for some studio art, art history, physics, calculus. </p>
<p>You would also need a portfolio of your artwork which demonstrates talent and creativity -- not necessarily in architecture but in any artistic medium.</p>